నెలబాలుడికి నూలుపోగు

This expression is used to describe an extremely stingy or miserly person. It suggests that even when dealing with large sums like a hundred or a crore, the person gives something of negligible or trivial value (like a single thread or a cow's tail hair), highlighting their reluctance to part with their wealth.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where even the primary guest or the most important person is being neglected or lacks basic hospitality; therefore, those who came along with them should expect even less or nothing at all. It highlights total scarcity or a lack of proper treatment for everyone involved.

This expression is used when offering a small, humble contribution toward a great cause or person. Just as a single thread is insignificant to the vast moon but is still offered as a gesture of devotion, this phrase signifies that the intent and sincerity of the giver matter more than the value of the gift.

This proverb is used to describe a situation where someone prioritizes an outsider or a distant relative over their own family, only to end up losing everything. It highlights the folly of misplaced priorities and the resulting regret when a primary responsibility is neglected for a secondary one.

This expression refers to performing a task or providing a solution that is perfectly sized, appropriate, or minimal yet sufficient for the specific requirement. It is often used to describe a ceremony where a simple thread is tied around an infant, symbolizing that even the smallest gesture or action is significant when done at the right time.

This expression describes how people's attitudes change based on a person's status or fortune. Just as people offer a small thread to the waxing crescent moon (hoping it grows) but offer full respectful salutations to the majestic full moon, people tend to give minimal attention to those starting out or in need, while showering great respect and honor upon those who are already successful, wealthy, or powerful.

This expression is used to describe someone who lacks even the most basic knowledge or foundational understanding of a subject, yet claims to be an expert. Just as a piece of cloth cannot exist without a thread, a teacher or scholar ('Pantulu') cannot exist without basic wisdom or character.

This proverb describes unfair partiality or double standards within a household. It refers to a situation where a woman treats her husband poorly (giving him a small, rough leaf to eat from) while showing excessive hospitality or preference toward her son-in-law (giving him a large, premium banana leaf). It is used to mock people who value outsiders or guests more than their own family members.

This expression is used to describe a token contribution or a small gesture made towards a large cause or expense. It signifies that even a tiny contribution (the thread) counts as a symbolic participation or 'blessing' when a massive task or expense (the hundred gold coins) is being undertaken. It is often used when one gives a small gift during a grand event to show their presence and goodwill.

This expression is used when offering a small, humble contribution toward a massive task or to a great person. It signifies that even if the gift or help is insignificant compared to the recipient's stature or the scale of the project, it is given with deep devotion and sincerity.